Philip Schrupp

The Regular Meeting agenda included the adoption of the agenda and approval of the Consent Agenda, which covered minutes from previous Work Session and Regular Meetings, as well as resolutions regarding the Watertown-Mayer Education Foundation charitable gambling request, interim appointment of the Public Services Superintendent, and promotion of Robert Hoen. In Open Forum, a request was made for a refund for a cancelled community center rental. New Business featured an informational presentation by the Carver County CDA Executive Director regarding development and land use in Watertown. The Council also addressed several Requests for Action (RFAs), including the approval for the purchase of pump and body modules for Engine 11 replacement, authorization to prepare plans and specifications for State Street storm sewer improvements, authorization for the 2026 Facility Study for key municipal buildings, authorization for preliminary design for Wastewater Treatment Facility Clarifier Improvements, seeking DNR grant funding for the Old Mill Park Trail connection, approval of the 2026 City of Watertown Organizational Statement (Resolution 2026-01), approval of a statement regarding State Government Fraud (Resolution 2026-02), and approval of the 2026 Fee Schedule (Ordinance 451). Other Reports included introductions, updates on county road work, commentary on Public Works staffing, and updates on the ice rink conditions and upcoming EDA/SRO meetings. The meeting concluded with the approval of the claims roster and adjournment.

Key discussions during the meeting included the approval of the agenda, the election of 2026 officers, resulting in Brad Kipp being appointed Chair and Matt Renz being appointed Vice-Chair. The Commission discussed the Adopt-A-Park Program, setting timelines for promotional letters, applications, and subsequent review at a future meeting. A separate discussion focused on initiatives and goal setting for 2026. Furthermore, an update was provided regarding the City Center Park / Veteran Memorial Ad Hoc Committee, where it was decided that a committee composed of various stakeholders would be formed to address the long-term vision for the memorial area. An update on city developments and staff matters was also provided by the City Administrator.

The key discussion topics involved entering a closed session to conduct the performance evaluation and annual review for the City Administrator, Dan Tolsma. The agenda also included a review of the Tentative City Council Work Plan for Quarter 1 of 2026.

The meeting agenda covered several key items, including the adoption of the agenda and discussion/approval of the Consent Agenda. New and old business involved a Request For Action (RFA) for a Step Movement for Connie Kammerer, an RFA concerning a Request For Community Room Rental Refund (where staff recommended a partial refund despite the 'no refund' clause in the agreement), and an RFA for a Public Services Used Forklift Purchase Request. The Council also discussed the February 10, 2026 Claims Roster for approval. In the Other Reports section, updates were provided regarding utility bill consolidation discussions, scheduling a goal setting meeting, EDA meeting outcomes including downtown boardwalk discussions, and recent Public Safety Commission activities along with local sheriff candidacies. The Council approved the claims roster.

The Council meeting included the approval of the agenda and consent agenda, which covered prior meeting minutes and a resolution approving Lions Club temporary liquor licenses. Key business involved approving the solicitation of quotes for two Public Services one-ton replacement vehicles and for a used forklift. Temporary sign permit requests for short-term parking were approved for Watertown Floral and Gift Company and Crow River Liquors, with specific conditions regarding display dates and removal. In reports, updates were given regarding utility bill consolidation proposals, scheduling a goal setting meeting, EDA officer elections and downtown boardwalk discussions, and Public Safety Commission review. The meeting concluded with the approval of the claims roster and adjournment.